Collect Ireland

PLEASE NOTE THIS SITE IS NO LONGER IN USE!

2011-02-17T08:43:00.006Z

Hello Everybody,

Thank you for continuing to look in here. As most of you will have noticed this blog has not been updated for a long time and I will delete it altogether during 2011. Please note that my new blog is up and running very successfully here: http://collectireland.wordpress.com/
and I would urge you to go there rather than leaving questions and comments on this blog which may not be seen for months. You can subscribe FREE OF CHARGE to the new blog at the touch of key - so come on over.

David

Collect Ireland migrates to www.wordpress.com

2010-08-06T08:30:00.005+01:00

Hello Everybody,

Typical, just after I finally find a design that I like at blogger.com then I discover that wordpress.com offers me more extensive features that will help make the site more useful. The long promised 2nd edition of "Collect Ireland" will hopefully appear before Christmas but I still have plenty of the 1st edition if anybody wants a copy €7.99 including p+p. Email me with your details at collectireland@gmail.com and I will get back to you. I hope that you will move across to visit the new blog at http://collectireland.wordpress.com/ and look forward to your comments there.

All the best.

David

PS I will continue to post duplicate posts here for a week or two until I am completely happy at wordpress.com

Bagenalstown, Co.Carlow - Household & Antiques Auction 9th August 7pm

2010-08-04T10:39:00.005+01:00

Viewing Saturday and Sunday from 2 till 6 and all day Monday until start of sale.

Highlights this month include a small private collection of Masons ironstone china, Waterford Crystal, Lady Lavery and Ploughman banknotes.

Royal Oak Auction Room
Auctioneers & Valuers
Royal Oak,
Bagenalstown,
Co Carlow

Tel: (059) 972 1006
Fax: (059) 972 2880
Mob: (087) 797 0878

E-mail: royaloakauctionrooms@live.ie

http://royaloakauctionrooms.wordpress.com/

How to find:

Royal Oak Auction Rooms are located on the junction of the N9 main road and the R724. Royal Oak is situated between Paulstown and Leighlinbridge. The junction is signposted to Mhuine Beagh & Borris. If travelling from Kilkenny direction turn right onto the R724 and the rooms are immediately on your left.

If travelling from Borris on the R705 cross the railway line in Muine Beagh, then turn left at The Railway pub onto the R724. Travel along the road approximately a mile and a half to the junction with the N9, take the last on the right immediately before the main junction with the N9.

There is ample parking available.

Wexford Racecourse Car Boot Sale - Mon 2nd August

2010-07-28T11:37:00.002+01:00

Wellington Bridge (Co.Wexford) Car Boot Sale Mon 2nd August

2010-07-28T11:33:00.003+01:00

Cork (Rathcormac) Car Boot Sale - Sunday 25th July

2010-07-19T21:28:00.006+01:00

The highly recommended Rathcormac Car Boot Sale takes places on Sunday 25th next. Comprehensive details on their website at: www.rathcormac.org

Navan Antiques Fair - Sunday 25th July

2010-07-19T18:57:00.002+01:00

ARDBOYNE HOTEL, NAVAN

OPEN: NOON TILL 6PM

20 dealers will be selling at the fair, including jewellery, fine art and collectables.

Now that the M3 has opened, the Ardboyne Hotel is a short 20 minutes from Dublin and the M50, there is plenty of parking, and the hotel is famous for its excellent Sunday carvery.

Take the Navan South exit (junction 8) off the M3 and follow signs for Navan, the hotel is on the way into the town centre from the motorway.

Don't forget, the fairs hotline is (087) 267 0607. You can text or phone this number to request text updates, or for information on any upcoming fair.

Mealy's Rare Book Sale, Castlecomer, 29th July 2010

2010-07-18T19:55:00.011+01:00

Rare Books, Irish Literary Items
Sporting & Collectors' Sale
Mealys Auction Rooms,
Castlecomer,
Co. Kilkenny.

Tel: +353 (0)56 44 41229
+353 (0)56 44 00942
+353 (0)56 44 00943

Fax: +353 (0)56 4441627

Email:
info@mealys.com
auctions@mealys.com
admin@mealys.com

Full illustrated catalogue online here: www.mealys.com

I had a scroll through the catalogue and there is a bit of everything - including rare Irish interest books, signed editions, sporting programmes for GAA/Rugby etc, modern film posters, coins/banknotes etc. Well worth looking through the catalogue. Also worth noting that Mealy's buyers premium is now 20% incl.VAT!

Mullingar/Kinnegad Country Fair + Car Boot Sale

2010-07-11T09:15:00.000+01:00

Coralstown Country Fair

Location: Opposite Coralstown Church between Kinnegad and Mullingar on
the old N4 and just off Exit 13 on the M4 Motorway.

Date: Saturday 17th July

Country Fair with car boot sale and trade displays where there are lots of bargains to be had.

Public Gates open at 9am (Sellers from 7am)

Cars €10
Car & Trailer/Jeep/Small Van €15
Large Van €25
Trade stalls €30
Buyers are free with parking available in public carpark.
Toilet & Bin Facilities provided.
It is only necessary to contact us if you wish to have a
trade stall, for general car boots just turn up on the day.

Contact:
(087) 950 1001 or farmgateshop@gmail.com

Further details: http://www.visitcoralstown.com

Ballyshannon, Co.Donegal Boot Sale & Flea Market

2010-07-09T17:22:00.000+01:00

On: Sunday, July 18 from 9:00am-4:00pm and every Sunday until further notice.


Where: Bundoran Road, Ballyshannon, Co.Donegal

Gates open for sellers 9am for Buyers 10am finish time 4pm.
Outdoor - Cars €12, Vans €15 and indoors table provided €15.


Further Info contact : (086) 242 4395 from the north: 00 353 8624 24395


This sale run last year and was a great success, now re-opening after renovation work.

Gorey Antiques Fair - Sunday 11th July

2010-07-07T12:05:00.000+01:00

Gorey Antiques Fair,
Amber Springs Hotel,
Gorey,
Co.Wexford

(out the R741 Ballycanew Road)

11am-6pm

Over 30 stands

Kells - Headfort Arms Antiques Fair - July 4th

2010-06-30T19:21:00.000+01:00

The annual Kells Summer Festival takes place this weekend and as usual, there will be an antiques fair in the Headfort Arms Hotel as part of the festivities. Now that Kells has been bypassed by the opening of M3 the festival committee has for the first time been able to organise a street market as part of the festival schedule. So on Sunday 4th July Kells will host an antiques fair, street market, kids carnival and funfair, art exhibitions and more.

The antiques fair runs from 12 noon to 6pm on Sunday 4th July, admission €3.50.

Details of the other events on www.KellsFestival.com. With the opening of the M3 you can literally be in Kells in half an hour from Dublin.

Swords, Co.Dublin - Car Boot Sales

2010-06-24T22:35:00.000+01:00

There's a car boot sale in Swords every Saturday morning, June through September.

It's held in the grounds of the Old Borough National School (not the pub with a similar name on the main street!), just off the main street on Church Road, right next to Saint Columba's Church, Swords.

It runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., but the gates are opened at 10 a.m. for sellers to get set up. Costs are free entry for buyers, and for sellers, the costs are cars €10, 7-seaters and estates €15; and vans €20. There's free customer parking in the church grounds.

All sellers' fees support the church renovations.

Info per www.boards.ie 24/6/10

Clontarf Castle Antiques Fair - Sunday 27th June

2010-06-24T12:07:00.000+01:00

Antiques Fair Clontarf Castle Sunday 27th 11am-6pm. There will be 35 dealers exhibiting.

GOOGLE INTERNET TUTORIALS THIS SUNDAY

Google will be attending the Antiques Fair as part of their Social Action Team's Age Engage programme. They will give tutorials targetting those with little or no knowledge of using computers or the internet, explaining the basics of how to get online, and how to use Internet to enhance your antiques hobby. The Google team will also answer general queries about how to use the Internet more effectively. The programme is designed to cater to those over 50 years of age, but the team won't be asking for ID so feel free to draw on their expertise! If you know anyone who would benefit from a lesson or advice on the many uses of the internet, bring them along on Sunday.

Parking at the fair is free, or take the bus (route 130 from city centre). The carvery at Clontarf Castle is also highly recommended for Sunday lunch.

Don't forget, the fairs hotline is 087 2670607. You can text or phone this number to request text updates, or for information on any upcoming fair.

Collecting Railway Letter Stamps - Update

2010-06-14T10:00:00.000+01:00

Last year I posted on this subject (Nov.25th) and mentioned that this previously Cinderella area of stamp collecting was seeing a big increase in interest and recent sales on eBay have been quite remarkable. The block of Cavan & Leitrim Railway stamps, pictured above, sold on eBay a few days ago for an incredible £123.00. Not bad considering that they could have been had for 25% of that only a couple of years ago!

ENNISCORTHY - Parnell Antiques Relocation Sale

2010-06-14T09:51:00.000+01:00

Another dealer to leave the high street is Chris Kavanagh of Parnell Antiques on Parnell Road in Enniscorthy, County Wexford. Chris is currently holding a closing-down/relocation sale and will be continuing his business from home.

Plenty of bargains to be had!

http://www.parnellantiques.com/

Tel: (053) 923 3553 or (087) 681 3180

Open: Tues/Sat. 10.30am-5.30pm. Other times by appointment.

Stock: Bedroom furniture, mirrors, prints, lighting and general antique furniture.

Antiques at the Point Village this Sunday 13th June

2010-06-10T17:37:00.001+01:00

VISIT THE ANTIQUES FAIRS IRELAND MARQUEE AT THE POINT VILLAGE THIS SUNDAY 13th June

Dublin's new weekend street market, beside the O2 Arena, with stalls selling gourmet foods, fashion, books, and this Sunday also featuring the Antiques Fairs Ireland marquee, with a small selection of stands offering affordable collectables and bric a brac, vintage jewellery, decor and more.

The market is open from 11am till 5pm and admission is free. Get the Luas Red Line to the terminus (02 Arena), or zip through the Port Tunnel, or pop over the East Link bridge from the south side, and you are right there.

KERRY (Cahirciveen) CAR BOOT SALE - 6th June

2010-06-05T21:45:00.000+01:00

MD Keating`s Supermarket, Cahersiveen, Co.Kerry

1st & 3rd Sunday of every month. 11am-4pm

Next sale: Sunday 6th June, 2010.

Further information contact: Dani (087) 931 9248

Swords Car Boot Sale - Sunday 23rd May 2010

2010-05-19T15:21:00.000+01:00

Dun Laoghaire Antiques &Collectors Fair

2010-05-18T11:47:00.000+01:00

Dun Laoghaire Antiques &Collectors Fair Sunday 23rd May

30 Dealers in attendance at this Sunday's Fair in the Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire - close by the Shopping Centre.

Open: 11am - 6pm.

Lots of bargains, including a good selection of furniture and decor, plus vintage fashion accessories and jewellery, rare books and memorabilia, rare coins, stamps and ephemera etc etc.

Further info: http://www.antiquesfairsireland.com/

New South County Dublin Auction Venue

2010-05-15T22:30:00.000+01:00

Website still under construction 15/5/2010.

Tallaght Stadium Car Boot Sale - Sunday 16th May

2010-05-11T15:35:00.000+01:00

A new venue details here: http://www.irishcarboot.ie/

Located on the N81, opposite The Square Shopping Centre and a few minutes walk from the Red Luas line terminus.

Open to the public from 10am-3pm.

A report from this event would be welcome!

Trim Castle Hotel Antiques Fair - Sunday 16th May

2010-05-10T12:56:00.000+01:00

Noon to 6pm

An Antiques Fair organised by Joan Murray (Antiques Fairs Ireland) takes place this Sunday 16th May in Trim Castle Hotel, located in the historic town of Trim. More than 20 dealers are booked to take part in the fair, which will include interiors, decor, lighting, paintings, prints and rare books (including items of local / Irish interest), rare coins and banknotes, jewellery and vintage fashion, etc.
Why not make a day of it! Located just a half hour from Dublin, Trim is a world away from bustle of the city. The Trim Castle Hotel is located opposite Trim's historic Norman castle (open 10am-6pm Sun, booking advised, see contact details below), and serves a superb and very good value carvery lunch. There is also an a la carte restaurant for fine dining, and self-service coffee shop/restaurant for light snacks, great for afternoon tea. The exhibition room is on the first floor, with wonderful balcony views of the castle and the old church. The town of Trim and the surrounding area is just full of historic monuments and ruins, and if the weather is fine, there is a beautiful river walk which meanders through pretty meadows and with wonderful views at every turn.

Further info: vintageireland@gmail.com or telephone (087)267 0607
from UK 00 353 87 267 0607

Kilcullen, Co.Kildare - CARBOOT SALE - Sunday 2nd May

2010-05-01T10:06:00.000+01:00

Next car boot sale is on this Sunday May 2nd from 10am till 3pm, in the grounds of the Cross and Passion Secondary College.
Cars €10 and vans €15.

Located in the grounds of the college which is in the village of Kilcullen on the Newbridge road.(Well signposted on the day)

Toilet facilities on site and tea/coffee available.

Gates open at 8.30am for set-up. Open to public 10am and usually finishes up by 3pm.

Further information contact: Mary Darker
goldenfalls@eircom.net

http://www.cpckilcullen.com

* Every first sunday of the month during the summer.

South Wexford Car Boot Sale - Mon 3rd May, 2010

2010-04-29T17:31:00.000+01:00

Enniscorthy Antiques Auction - Saturday 1st May

2010-04-28T22:46:00.000+01:00

Robert Rackard is holding a sale of Antiques, Garden Furniture, Weapons and other collectables at his premises at Caim (near Enniscorthy)in County Wexford.

Sale commences at 11am.

650 lots.

Viewing Friday 30th April 9.00am - 9.00pm and Saturday morning of sale.

Further information: Telephone (053) 92 55100

Sligo Antiques Fair: Sunday 9th May, 2010

2010-04-28T10:26:00.000+01:00

The 9th Sligo Antiques & Collectables fair will be held on Sunday 9th May at the Clarion Hotel Sligo. Doors open 11am-6pm.

There will be 20+ dealers offering a range of furniture, jewellery, silver, porcelain, postage stamps, oriental rugs, clocks & watches, books, prints & paintings and general collectables.

April 25th 2010

2010-04-26T16:11:00.000+01:00

Called to Blackrock Market today and have to say it was depressingly quiet. One trader I spoke to said Saturdays are even worse! I moved on to the Ranelagh Market where the queues were out on to the street - and not moving - so I scooted off as life's too short. Apparently the St.Mary's Carboot sale held recently at Enniscorthy Greyhound Track was very busy, and there is another sale at the same venue in aid of Crumlin Children's Hospital - details here shortly. Hopefully I will have something more worthwhile to report in my next post.

Collectors Toy Fair - Sunday 23rd May

2010-04-23T18:23:00.000+01:00

Clontarf Castle Hotel Antiques Fair

2010-04-22T12:10:00.000+01:00

40 Dealers in attendance.

Sunday 25th April, from 11am-6pm.

Lots of bargains, including a good selection of furniture and decor, fine art, including works by Irish artists, Markey, Bewick, Maderson, etc, plus vintage fashion accessories and jewellery, along with memorabilia, rare coins and medals, etc, etc.
Free parking, or take the bus (# 130 from the City centre). The carvery at Clontarf Castle is also highly recommended for Sunday lunch.
Don't forget, the fairs hotline is (087) 2670607. You can text or phone this number to request text updates, or for information on any upcoming fair.

This fair is organised by Joan Murray of Antiques Fairs Ireland and, as always, can be highly recommended.

Harolds Cross Carboot Sale website

2010-04-15T22:08:00.000+01:00

Dates, times etc. for this Dublin venue here: http://www.haroldscrosscarbootsale.com/

I haven't been yet but will report on as soon as I can.

Collectibles & Antiques at www.boards.ie

2010-04-08T19:21:00.000+01:00

Have you tried the Collectibles & Antiques Forum at www.boards.ie? Lots of interesting discussions, tips and news of forthcoming events.

http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/forumdisplay.php?f=394

GREYSTONES CAR BOOT SALES 2010

2010-04-08T19:17:00.000+01:00

2010 Car boot sales at St.David's School, Greystones

April 11th.
May 9th.
May 23rd
June 6th
June 20th.
July 4th.
July 18th.
August 1st.
August 15th.
August 29th.
September 12th.
September 26th.

Gates open for traders at 7.30 a.m.
Cars €13
Vans/Trailers €25
First 90 cars only can be accommodated.

ENNISCORTHY CAR BOOT SALE Sunday 18th April

2010-04-08T19:06:00.000+01:00

At: Enniscorthy Greyhound Track
Gates open: 8.30
Sellers: €15 per car; €20 per car + trailer
Buyers: €2 children FREE

Proceeds in aid of St.Mary's National School

Munster Militaria Fair at Metropole Hotel, Cork, on April 3rd, 2010

2010-03-22T23:07:00.000Z

The next fair is scheduled for Saturday, April 3rd, 2010 at the Metropole Hotel, MacCurtain Street, Cork City, but due to the large numbers who attended in November the fair will be held in the larger Ballroom venue.Opening hours for the public will be 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Traders can set up displays from 8:00 a.m. on the day, or on Friday evening the 2nd of April from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Public Admission: €2.00
Children under 12: Free

Tables (6′ by 2.5′ approx) for traders are again priced at €20, or two tables for €30. If you would like to participate, either as a trader or to represent a re-enactment group, then please contact us for more information. All are most welcome.

Contact page here: http://munstermilitariafairs.com/contact/

Car Boot Sale Glasnevin Sunday March 7th

2010-03-05T22:47:00.000Z

REMINDER

Carboot sale in St.Mary's Secondary School car park in Glasnevin on Sunday March 7th.
Run by Botanic Hockey Club
www.botanichockeyclub.com
Cars are €20 and Vans are €25.
Gates open at 8.30am and it goes on until 2/3pm.

Drogheda Antiques Fair Sunday 7th March 2010

2010-03-05T22:42:00.000Z

An Antiques Fair in aid of Clogherhead Lifeboat takes place in the Boyne Valley Hotel Drogheda this Sunday 7th March. 20 dealers will be in attendance at the fair, which opens from 12 noon to 6pm

The Boyne Valley Hotel is just 30 minutes or less from the M50 (northbound heading towards Dublin Airport). Exit at Julianstown, last exit before the toll, and follow directions for Drogheda until you see the hotel on the right side of the road just before the town centre.

The admission charge to the fair is €3.50, all of which will be donated to the Clogherhead Lifeboat.

Organised by Joan Murray of Antiques Fairs Ireland this event is highly recommended!

Interesting Militaria Website

2010-03-02T16:12:00.000Z

I recently came across this Irish website and while I cannot recommend it - not knowing anybody involved - it looks very promising. http://theirishwar.com/

Medals from Black and Tan war; 1920s Irish Army helmets etc. Stuff looks the real deal but, as always, buyer beware.

Dublin, RDS Coin Fair - February 27th/28th

2010-02-12T20:55:00.000Z

REMINDER

Irish International Coin Fair February 27th — 28th 2010
RDS Ballsbridge, Serpentine Hall, Hall 3, Anglesea Rd.

NAVAN ANTIQUES FAIR THIS SUNDAY 14th February

2010-02-10T19:17:00.000Z

THE NEXT ANTIQUES FAIR TAKES PLACE THIS SUNDAY IN THE ARDBOYNE HOTEL, NAVAN.

Opening Hours: NOON till 6PM
25 dealers will be selling at the fair, including jewellery in every price bracket, all of it unique, for that very special Valentine's Day gift.
The Ardboyne Hotel is only 30 minutes from Dublin and the M50, there is plenty of parking, and the hotel is famous for its excellent Sunday carvery.

If you miss this Sunday's fair, the next Clontarf Castle fair is Sunday 21st February 11am-6pm. There will be 40 dealers and lots of bargains, including a good selection of furniture.
Free parking, or take the bus (route 130 from city centre). The carvery at Clontarf Castle is also highly recommended for Sunday lunch.

Don't forget, the fairs hotline is (087) 2670 607. You can text or phone this number to request text updates, or for information on any upcoming fair.

Carboot Sale, Glasnevin - Sunday March 7th

2010-02-01T21:26:00.000Z

Carboot sale in St.Mary's Secondary School car park in Glasnevin on Sunday March 7th.
Run by Botanic Hockey Club
www.botanichockeyclub.com
Cars are €20 and Vans are €25.
Gates open at 8.30am and it goes on until 2/3pm.

Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire - Antiques Fair - Sunday 31st January

2010-01-27T22:30:00.000Z

This fair has been brought forward to 31st January from the original advertised date of 21 Feb. 35 dealers will be exhibiting, selling a wide range of antiques, vintage and collectors item, including furniture, contemporary Irish art, jewellery, porcelain, art glass, vintage fashion and accessories, vintage decor, rare coins, stamps and postal history, curios, etc. Admission €3.50.

Location: near Dun Laoghaire harbour and the Stenaline ferry terminal (follow road signs for the Stenaline Dun Laoghaire car ferry). The local DART station is 5 minutes walk away, and many buses from Dublin city also stop near the hotel.

Opening hours 11am to 6pm.
Don't forget, the fairs hotline is 087 2670607. You can text or phone this number to request text updates, or for information on any upcoming fair.

Also see website here: http://www.vintageireland.eu

Purcell Auctioneers, Birr, Co.Offaly................... Collectors Sale Sat. 23rd January

2010-01-21T13:18:00.000Z

Another interesting sale for the collector.
Saturday 23rd January.
Catalogue here: http://www.purcellauctioneers.ie/auction.htm

522 lots with everything - including the kitchen sink - stuffed birds, prints, coins, furniture, breweriana,porcelain, jewellery, glass, etc.etc. be there or be square!

GUINNESS BREO BEER FOR SALE!

2010-01-20T11:45:00.000Z

Recently came across this in the back of a wardrobe and I had it on sale on eBay but no takers - contact me at mcglynnparks@hotmail.com if you're interested.

All six bottles are unopened but are long past their use by date but who knows - anyway they would be a nice addition to any collection of 'Guinntiques' or a talking point in your private bar?

2010 COIN FAIR AT R.D.S

2010-01-10T18:45:00.000Z

27th/28th February 2010

Opening hours: 11.00 am - 6.00 pm

Venue: RDS Dublin (from Anglesey Road entrance)

Further details as I get them.

DUBLIN TOY & TRAIN FAIR 2010

2010-01-05T18:58:00.000Z

Collecting Railway Letter Stamps

2009-11-25T14:09:00.000Z

In the days when the Post Office held a complete monopoly of the mails it was possible for the private individual or business to also send post by rail, by affixing the normal postage stamp plus a railway company stamp and presenting it the station for carriage on the next available service. This maintained the Post Office’s monopoly while producing a useful source of income for the railway companies. This system operated in the UK and Ireland from 1891 to 1947 and led to wide variety of stamps being issued by the various independent railway companies.
These stamps are of interest to the specialist stamp collector as well to the railwayana collector but despite their rarity they remain a Cinderella item and, as such, can still be bought quite cheaply. The unused block featured here were issued by the West Clare Railway Company in the 1890s and were purchased on eBay in 2004 for the paltry sum of €10. A very cheap way to begin a collection of genuine memorabilia from this long gone railway made famous by Percy French’s song “Are you right there Michael?”
Given the prices achieved by far more common Irish postage stamps there is only one way that these curiosities are going – so the message is get in there now! Apart from eBay the stamps occasionally turn up at the various Antiques & Collectors Fairs around the country.

I wrote the above piece five years ago and in the intervening period the price of railway letter stamps has spiralled upwards. In recent months similar blocks of unused stamps have been selling on eBay for €80/90! Too rich for me at that price.

CAR BOOT SALE, Kilcullen, Co.Kildare - Sun.6th December

2009-11-23T22:43:00.000Z

Car Boot Sale run by Cross & Passion College Parents Association

INDOOR EVENT - INDOOR EVENT - INDOOR EVENT

Located in the grounds of the college which is in the village of Kilcullen on the Newbridge road.(Well signposted on the day)

Toilet facilities on site and from September tea and coffee available.

Gates open at 8.30am for set-up. Open to public 10am and usually finishes up by 3pm.

Further information contact: Mary Darker
goldenfalls@eircom.net

A video of the last carboot sale at this venue on 2/8/09 can be found at the link below.

www.cpckilcullen.com

DUBLIN TOY & TRAIN FAIRS 2010 DATES

2009-11-19T12:45:00.000Z

Kenny's Antiques Auction, Galway, Sun.15th November

2009-11-11T22:13:00.000Z

A new addition to Kenny's of Galway operations in a premises close to their book warehouse is a fine art and collectables auction on Sunday 15th, November. The auction is being run in association with the well known Dublin auctioneer - Joe Mullen - and there is something for everyone in the 400+ lots included in the sale. Paintings, prints, books, porcelain and a number of very attractive full colour lithographic posters advertising the Great Southern Railways, Guinness etc.

The full catalogue is available online at: http://www.kennys.ie/auctions/

Kennys Art Auctions
Kilkerrin Park, Liosbaun
Tuam Rd, Galway

DUBLIN TOY & TRAIN FAIR Sunday 15th November

2009-11-11T19:54:00.000Z

The ideal opportunity for some quality Christmas shopping!

Clontarf Castle Hotel - this Sunday 15th November, 10am - 4pm

*Don't forget to click on the pic if you want to enlarge the image.

Wexford Car Boot Sale - October 26th

2009-10-21T10:23:00.000+01:00

CAR BOOT SALE
St.Leonards,
Co.Wexford

3 miles south of Wellington Bridge on the R733 and 10 minutes from the Passage East Car Ferry.

Bank Holiday Monday October 26th.
9am-2pm

Gates open for traders at 7.45am.
Traders: Cars €15. Van €25 and XL Van €35.

Contact (087) 996 7610

Proceeds to Parish of Tintern, St.Leonards.

WEXFORD BOOK FAIR - 1st November 2009

2009-10-20T10:08:00.000+01:00

BOOK FAIR at the Talbot Hotel, Wexford.
1st November, 2009.
10.30am - 5.00pm

Rare, Antiquarian, Historical, Good general range of books and ephemera.

Wexford Festival Antiques Fair - October Bank Holiday

2009-10-18T11:34:00.000+01:00

The 38th Wexford Festival Antiques Fair takes place in the Talbot Hotel, Wexford over the October Bank Holiday - Thurs.22nd/Mon.26th October from 12 noon to 8 p.m. daily. Run as a fringe event to the Wexford Opera Festival this fair rarely disappoints me - reasonable prices and a diverse range of stock. According to my local paper taking part in the five-day event will be Chris Kavanagh (Enniscorthy), Kieran Moran (Co.Wicklow), Marie Curran (Dublin), Brigid Wall (Co.Wexford), Albie O'Donoghue (Co.Waterford), Michael Lee (Co.Wicklow), Terry Stacey (Co.Wexford), Charlotte Freeman (London), Joe Keating (Dublin) and Wexford's Mairead Furlong.

Of special interest this year will be an excellent selection of Georgian and early Victorian furniture; silver and Art Deco figurines; Irish paintings, mirrors, and collectables - particularly film posters, coins and medals.

The Talbot Hotel is located at the south end of the Wexford quayfront.

Waterford Antique & General Furniture Auction

2009-09-28T14:28:00.001+01:00

Monday, October 5th at 11am.

R.J.Keighery I.P.A.V.,
City Auctions, Georges Quay, Waterford

Viewing: Daily Mon-Sat 12-5pm and Sunday 4th 12-5pm.

870 lots of furniture, antiques, bric-a-brac including a Ford Anglia!

New Wexford Town Carboot Venue

2009-09-23T17:09:00.000+01:00

A new venue for Carboot sales in the Sunny South East.

WEXFORD RACECOURSE ENCLOSURE

Saturday Market & Car Boot Sale.

Opening October 3rd - All Day.

Trade Booking Enquiries - (087) 223 5693.

Ref: Advert in Enniscorthy Echo 23/9/09.

The Emperor's New Clothes - Part.I.

2009-09-22T17:23:00.000+01:00

Bobby McLean at the Watch House Gallery, Enniscorthy.

I wrote this piece a couple of years ago and never got round to submitting it for publication and am using it here as the first in a series on Art collecting.

We were recently invited by friends to the opening of an exhibition of paintings by Galwegian painter, Bobby McLean at the Watch House Gallery in Enniscorthy. Not being a great lover of art exhibitions, I went along to keep my wife company safe in the knowledge that at least it was an excuse to have a few drinks afterwards.

I should have brought my sunglasses. A cursory look around the garish collection of landscapes (?) crudely daubed in oils confirmed my opinions on contemporary art and I was looking for the way out. This art is best viewed in a dark room, it is for laying down and avoiding! If it weren't for the outrageous prices which varied from €450 to €2,500 I would say don't give up the day job, but if he can fetch these prices perhaps it is I that should change jobs. This artist cannot paint, although this shouldn't deter him as many others from the primitive school such as Jack B Yeats command huge prices, but they generally have to be dead first. Out of the twenty eight pictures on view no fewer than fourteen were imaginatively titled "Landscape in Red"! At the bottom of the price list a note stated 'Art may be purchased in installments' - enough said.

My friend and I slipped away before the opening speeches, leaving our wives behind with strict instructions not to buy anything. As we savoured our pints of Guinness in a nearby hostelry we hoped our wives would not waiver but we needn't have worried as they joined us as soon as was polite after the speeches. They had learnt that the artist was a 'colourist' - that much even I could see but what is obsession with badly drawn electricity pylons?

My advice to anyone thinking of investing in a Bobby McLean painting is don't! Save your money and nip down to your local Euro shop instead and pick up a nice cheap print that your family and friends will at least understand. If I am not very much mistaken in a few years time it will be worth as much as any of the paintings on view. If this is 'art' I will eat not just my hat but my entire wardrobe!

Next up Sean Scully.

Mealy's Irish Writers & Rare Book Sale Tues.15th September

2009-09-12T13:53:00.000+01:00

Tuesday next will see this very interesting sale held in the D4 Hotel (formerly the Berkeley Court, Ballsbdridge, Dublin.4.
Viewing on Sunday 13th: 1.00pm - 7pm & Monday 14th: 10.30am - 8pm.

Amongst the many lots I spotted several early signed works by the late John McGahern; Taylor & Skinners Roads of Ireland (1777); Musgrave's history of the 1798 Rebellion and the always popular Vanishing Dublin by Flora Mitchell.

Full details of this sale and the Sporting Memorabilia Sale at the same venue on the 16th September are available at http://www.mealys.com/

Dublin Book Fair Fri.18th & Sat.19th September

2009-09-12T13:02:00.000+01:00

DUBLIN BOOK FAIR
The Freemasons' Hall, 17 Molesworth Street, Dublin.2.
Friday 18th September - Noon to 7pm.
Saturday 19th September - 10am to 5pm.
Antiquarian & Secondhand Books, maps, prints etc for sale.
Admission €3
Further details: 00 44 1383 725566

See also: www.pbfa.org

Galway Car Boot Sale, Terryland Park - Sept.19th 2009

2009-09-11T14:22:00.000+01:00

10am to 3pm – Galway United grounds, Terryland Park, Dyke Road, Galway

10 am for sellers
10.30 browsers (free)

Pitch prices
10 € car
15 € small van/trailer
20 € large van
25 € trader

Large vans asked to park at the end, no one will be let in before 9.30am.
Food & drink stall, face painting & balloon making, nice family day out.

http://galwaycarbooters.ning.com/

Call 087 2788651 or 087 9660509 for any further detail.
WEATHER PERMITTING

Enniscorthy, Co.Wexford - Carboot Sale 12/13th September

2009-09-07T17:46:00.000+01:00

Car Boot Sale in aid of Rehab Wexford at the Showgrounds Enniscorthy (Dog Track).
Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th September 2009

Contact:(087) 742 1096

The Exchange Bookshop, Dalkey, Co.Dublin

2009-09-05T15:30:00.000+01:00

I paid a flying visit here yesterday and was delighted to find the bookshop busy with plenty of customers, and buying, not just browsing. The very pleasant proprietor, David Simmons, says business is good despite the economic woes of the country. Dalkey has everything for the best in quality retail therapy - galleries, bookshops, coffee shops, organic and health food shops, heritage centres - all packed into a tiny, beautifully kept enclave. All within a stones throw of Dalkey DART station. Mmmm!

Where to buy COLLECT IRELAND

2009-09-05T15:24:00.000+01:00

I have only just begun distributing the guide so this list will be updated regularly:

1. Blackrock Market, Co.Dublin
2. Caxton Prints, 63 Patrick Street, Dublin.8.
3. Gallery 29, 29 Molesworth Street, Dublin.2.
4. Stokes Books, 19 Market Arcade, South Great Georges Street, Dublin.2.
5. National Gallery Shop, Dublin .2.
6. Alan Hanna's Bookshop, 270 Lr.Rathmines Road, Dublin.6.
7. Exchange Bookshop, Castle Street, Dalkey, Co.Dublin

List updated: 5/9/09

Don't forget to let me have your comments and suggestions for the 'All-Ireland' edition which, fingers crossed, should appear before Christmas.

Keighery's Auctions, Waterford - 24th August

2009-08-19T14:13:00.000+01:00

KEIGHERY'S, Waterford, August 24th Sale

Another interesting sale at Keighery's on Monday August 24th.

Check this link http://www.cityauctionrooms.com

The full catalogue is now online.

Collect Ireland - Available here!

2009-08-18T14:42:00.001+01:00

The moment you've all been waiting for - your chance to buy 'Collect Ireland' and at a discount!

143 pages of useful information on where to buy Antiques in the Republic of Ireland. Everything is here including Auction Houses, Antiques Shops, Fairs, Markets, Regular Carboot Sales and Antiquarian & Secondhand booksellers. Alphabetical and county by county - easy to use.

Addresses, opening hours, telephone numbers, email addresses, stock, websites and much more besides.

Normal retail price is €8.99 but buy directly and I will send you a copy for €7.50 (including p+p) - Island of Ireland only!
UK Mainland €8.99 (incl.p+p).

If you wish to purchase a copy please email me with your details at collectireland@gmail.com

Remember, as somebody famous once said "Always read something that will make you look good if you die in the middle of it." Make sure it's Collect Ireland.

Raven Books, Blackrock, Co.Dublin

2009-08-16T23:22:00.000+01:00

Located at 12 Carysfort Avenue (just round the corner from Blackrock Main Street) this compact little shop is like the Tardis and boasts a lot more on the inside than its diminutive frontage would suggest. I popped in today, for the first time, and was very pleasantly surprised by the range and quality of stock. Despite the indifferent weather the shop was doing a brisk trade and I would recommend it as a call for all booklovers. Friendly customer service! Remember that there are also several booksellers in the Blackrock Market (off Main Street) as well as, the long established, Carrig Books at 73 Main Street.

Raven Books are open as follows:

Mon/Weds, 9.30am-6pm
Thurs 9.30am-8pm
Fri/Sat 9.30am-6pm
Sunday 11.00am-3pm

Telephone (01) 278 9509

Website: www.ravenbooks.ie

Drumcondra, Dublin.3. - Carboot Sale 12th September

2009-08-11T21:05:00.000+01:00

Saturday 12th September 2009

Crosscare are running a car boot sale to raise money for the services they provide (community, homeless, teenagers).

Venue: Mater Dei Institute Carpark, Clonliffe Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 3
Time: 11am to 3pm (gates open at 9am for sellers)

There are 2 options:
Option 1: Free entry and donate your takings
Option 2: €25 entry fee and keep your takings

There will be face painting and refreshments on the day.

Further info contact: Monica on (01)837 1892

Purcell Auctions, Birr, Co.Offaly - 8th August 2009

2009-08-04T14:38:00.000+01:00

Purcell Auctioneers, Green Street, Birr, Co.Offaly

8th August 2009. Starts at 11am.

740 lots. Furniture, art and collectables. An eclectic mix with something for everybody.

Viewing
Tuesday & Wednesday 10am-6pm
Thursday & Friday 10am - 8pm
and from 9am on morning of sale.

Catalogue online at:www.purcellauctioneers.com

Glasnevin Carboot Sale, Dublin.11. Sunday 27th September 2009

2009-08-03T19:58:00.000+01:00

Carboot Sale run by Botanic Hockey Club

St Mary's Girls Secondary School, Old Finglas Rd, Glasnevin, Dublin 11
(up the road from the Met Office)
Gates open at 8.30am - 3pm.

Cars €20 and Vans €25. Coffee shop on duty and toilet facilities

Next sale: Sunday 27th September 2009.

We will run a Boot Sale every month until the April 2010, actual dates still to be confirmed.

Further info:Contact Helen Walsh - helenswalsh@eircom.net

Kilcullen Car Boot Sale, Co.Kildare - Sunday 6th September

2009-08-03T19:19:00.000+01:00

Cross & Passion College, Kilcullen, Co.Kildare.

Car Boot Sale run by Cross & Passion College Parents Association

Located on the grounds of the college which is in the village of Kilcullen on the Newbridge road.(Well signposted on the day)

€10 for a car (one car space) €15 for a van

Toilet facilities on site and from September tea and coffee available.

Gates open at 8.30am for set-up and things usually finish up by 3pm.

Further information contact: Mary Darker goldenfalls@eircom.net

A video of the last carboot sale at this venue on 2/8/09 can be found at the link below.

www.cpckilcullen.com

Antiques Fairs Ireland Drogheda - August 2nd - in aid of the RNLI.

2009-07-31T18:20:00.000+01:00

Sunday, August 2nd : IN AID OF CLOGHERHEAD LIFEBOAT

Boyne Valley Hotel, Drogheda. Noon to 6pm, admission €3.50 (donated to Clogherhead Lifeboat Fund). August 2nd is the Clogherhead Lifeboat Flag Day. You can support this important institution by donating a minimum of €3.50 by way of admission to the fair.

See: www.antiquesfairsireland.com

Run by Joan Murray of Antiques Fairs Ireland this is bound to be a goodie - so break open the piggy bank and head for sunny Drogheda!

Kill O'The Grange Carboot Sale, Co.Dublin

2009-07-27T13:30:00.000+01:00

Kill O’The Grange Church of Ireland Carboot Sale,
Deansgrange, Co.Dublin
Saturday 22nd August & Saturday 14th November 2009
10am-2pm.
The church is located behind a group of shops to the rear of SuperValu. The easiest bus to get is the 46A which runs from Dún Laoghaire DART station to the City Centre. The less frequent 45 bus is also available.

Dun Laoghaire Carboot Sale - St.Joseph's, Tivoli Road

2009-07-27T13:10:00.000+01:00

St. Joseph’s School, Tivoli Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin
Sunday 30th August 2009 - 8am/2pm

Clonmany Carboot Sale, Co.Donegal

2009-07-27T12:56:00.000+01:00

Clonmany Community Centre, Clonmany, Co.Donegal

Saturdays: (1st of month) 10am-2pm.
Rates: €10 per table.
Refreshments and toilet facilities available.
Information: (074) 937 6772

Donegal Town Carboot Sales

2009-07-26T10:51:00.000+01:00

St.John Bosco Centre (car park), Donegal Town.

First Sunday of every month 9 am to 3pm.
Traders: €10 for cars and €15 for vans.
Refreshments: Hot food, tea, coffee etc.available.
There are toilets for traders and customers in the community centre.
Further information: (085) 760 3980 - Siobhan.

Harolds Cross Carboot Sales, Dublin.6W

2009-07-25T20:15:00.000+01:00

Harolds Cross Greyhound Stadium, Dublin 6W

Forthcoming dates :

August : 2nd, 16th, 30th

September : 6th, 20th

October : 4th, 18th

Opening times : Gates open at 8am for Sellers.

Charges for Sellers: cars €15 and vans €20

Admission for Buyers: FREE.

Tea/coffee facilities on site, also a burger van
Toilets on site.
We also have limited table rental.

Further information contact: Damian (086) 837 1573

or email: lowth666@yahoo.ie

Antiques Fair - Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire , August 16th

2009-07-19T14:02:00.000+01:00

August 16th: Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire

35 dealers will be exhibiting This pleasant seadside suburb is 9 km/ 6 miles from central Dublin. The hotel overlooks Dun Laoghaire harbour and is adjacent to the Sealink Ferry Terminal. The local DART station is a few hundred yards away, and numerous buses stop nearby, including routes 7, 7A, 8, 46A and 111 from the city centre.

Open: 11am to 6pm, admission €3.50

I can strongly recommend this fair run by Joan Murray of Antiques Fairs Ireland!

Other fairs see: www.antiquesfairsireland.com

Dublin City Book Fairs

2009-07-13T09:08:00.000+01:00

Dublin City Book Fair, Tara Towers Hotel, Merrion Road, Dublin

I had an opportunity to pay a flying visit to this Book Fair yesterday and I was well impressed by the wide variety/quality of items on offer - many at very reasonable prices. An early childrens' edition of 'The Thirty Nine Steps' caught my eye at a mere €12 and a copy of the rare 'The Natural History of Cape Clear' 1st edition - cheap at €75. I was, sadly, in selling mode (i.e.broke) so passed on both. Apart from books of every type there were also stamps, postcards and coins on offer.

Further 2009 Dates

Sunday September 13th, Sunday October 25th and Sunday December 6th.
For more information, or if you wish to exhibit at any of the book fairs, please contact:

Craobh Rua Books,
Email: craobh@btinternet.com
Co. Armagh
Phone: 048-375-26938

or

Jack and Barbara O'Connell
Schull, Co. Cork
Phone: 028-37317
Email: schullbooks@eircom.net

or

Eddie and Kay Murphy
Newcastle Co. Dublin
Phone: 01-458 9237
Email: lyonshillbooks@eircom.net

Kildare Animal Foundation Open Day - 19th July

2009-07-07T16:59:00.000+01:00

Kildare Animal Foundation Open Day
19th July 2009

Time: 1pm – 5pm
Venue: The Kildare Animal Foundation, South Green Road, Kildare Town

The Animal Foundation welcomes you to a fun packed day out for all the family. Bric a brac, cakes, raffles, plants, crafts, toys, books, kids games, antiques, teas and much more!
Special Guest RTE's *Anne Doyle*
Please leave your dogs at home for this event

http://www.animalfoundation.ie/

Galway carboot sale - Sat.4th July

2009-06-29T14:50:00.000+01:00

Renmore Gymnastics Club are having their re-scheduled annual carboot sale on Sat 4th July from 10:30am in the carpark at the back of Terryland Football Stadium. €15 per car €25 per van. It'll be on till about 2:30pm. Sellers can arrive from 10am.

Terryland Football Stadium is on the Dyke road in Galway, past the Waterworks (coming from Town and/or the Dyke road carpark).

For more information you can contact maire@kotalk.com

THE EAGLE HAS LANDED!

2009-06-17T11:01:00.000+01:00

Five years in gestation and "Collect Ireland" is finally in production. The first sample copies arrived from the publishers last week and, for the first time with anything that I have produced, I am happy with the finished result. A second edition, which includes Northern Ireland, is nearing completion and should appear towards the end of July.

Copies of Collect Ireland should soon be available at various antiques fairs, antiques shops and bookshops around the country. It will also be available directly from me through this blog - as soon as the bulk print run arrives.

My sincere thanks to all those who have helped in anyway with the production and especially Steve McCarthy for producing the cover artwork for me. Further examples of his work are available on his blog: http://www.mrstevemccarthy.blogspot.com/

Gorey Antiques Fair - Sat.21st June

2009-06-17T10:43:00.000+01:00

The annual Gorey Antiques Fair takes place this Sunday at the Amber Springs Hotel, Wexford Road, Gorey. 11am - 6pm. Thirty dealers are due to attend with a selection of quality antique furniture, art, jewellery, collectables etc.

The hotel is a short distance from Gorey Main Street. Coming from the Dublin direction turn down The Avenue from Gorey Main Street, over the railway line and the hotel is a short distance ahead on the left-hand side. Worth a look - the Fair not the hotel!

KEIGHERY' S, Waterford, June 8th Sale

2009-05-19T10:01:00.000+01:00

Another interesting sale at Keighery's on Monday June 8th - sadly I won't be able to get there. Check this link http://www.cityauctionrooms.com/ the full catalogue will be online nearer the sale date.

Dundrum (Co.Dublin) Car Boot Sales

2009-04-20T13:32:00.000+01:00

This popular South County Dublin venue continues to pull in the crowds with plenty of sellers and buyers. It is held in the grounds of the Methodist Church, Ballinteer Road - off the M50 - near Wesley College. 8am-2pm on Saturdays. Refreshments and toilets available on site.

Forthcoming dates include: 9th May, 13th June, 11th July and 8th August.

Further information available from David on (01) 493 1673 or Fraser on (01) 493 4650.

Wexford - another Car Boot Sale.

2009-04-08T12:46:00.000+01:00

Another one from my local paper - not checked out yet!

Easter Monday April 13th (and every Holiday Monday).

St.Leonards in South Co.Wexford ( 3.72 miles south of Wellingtonbridge on R733) - 10 minutes from Passage East car ferry.

9.00am - 2.00pm.

Admission: €2 . Children Free.

Contact: (087) 996 7610

Proceeds to Parish of Tintern, St.Leonards.

ARKLOW MARKET

2009-04-08T12:37:00.000+01:00

I know nothing about this new market - it was advertised in the Enniscorthy Guardian - but I will be up to check it out shortly. In the meantime these are the details as they appeared:

Arklow Market,
(formerly Morgan Doyle)
Main Street, Arklow, Co.Wicklow
Open: Fri/Sat/Sun and Bank Holiday Mondays. (12 Noon)
Over 50 stalls.
Further info: Debbie on (086) 852 6630

Kehoe's, South Anne Street - another institution!

2009-04-02T20:57:00.000+01:00

I can't visit Dublin without popping into Kehoe's pub on South Anne Street. Sadly when working I have to restrict myself to coffee and a toasted sandwich - this always seems like sacrilege in such august surroundings. Truly unique, unchanged for more than a century this pub is a veritable oasis in a city full of 'watering holes' with the emphasis on holes! Toasted sandwiches in cellophane and soup is the only food on offer - no paninis or lattes here - and food is served until it runs out. The original snug remains and the shop shelves behind the age worn counter exude atmosphere - time stands still here - and long may it continue to do so!

As luck would have it my visit coincided with the introduction of branded crockery by Kehoe's - mugs, cups, plates etc with the pub's name emblazoned upon them - I just had to have for my breweriana collection. I explained to the barman that it was a case of theft or purchase as I couldn't go home without a mug. A small donation to the bar tips glass saw me part a happy and honest punter!

Kehoe's Pub,

South Anne Street,

Dublin.2.

A place to visit before you die!

Whistlestop visit to Dublin.

2009-04-02T19:59:00.000+01:00

Appropriately April 1st saw me visit the Capital to do one last check on antiques dealers for my forthcoming guide to collecting - now titled 'Collect Ireland' - and, as usual, some shops had closed down while others had moved location. At 88 Francis Street I called into the well stocked premises of Sean McGahan & Sons, in the business for more than 20 years, and can highly recommend his shop to anyone looking for high quality antique furniture. His stock is spread over two floors and every inch of space is crammed with really quality items - some superb bookcases, tables, and a Victorian display case of birds including a Crowned Crane that really took my fancy. These days I limit my collecting to more easily manageable (and affordable) items so resisted the urge to splash out €3,000 on the display case. A fine oil painting of a Belfast sailing ship which disappeared off South Africa in the 1890s on its maiden voyage (€1,500) also had to be declined, this time purely for financial reasons. Sean also undertakes furniture restoration work. A dealer who is genuinely enthusiastic about his stock is, these days, an endangered species in my opinion! Be sure to give him a call if you're in the area.

Sean McGahan & Sons,
88 Francis Street,
Dublin.8.
(086) 258 1233

Open: 11/4 Mon-Fri.

On the way back to Dublin.2. I called to Caxton Prints, 63 Patrick Street (the last business in Ireland without a website - according to the proprietor) but worth a call nonetheless. His main stock is 16th/19th century prints. Another friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable dealer.

Caxton Prints,
63 Patrick Street,
Dublin.8.
(01) 453 0060

Open: 10.30/4.30 Mon-Sat.

Back on South Great Georges Street a visit to the Market Arcade is a must - two book dealers, a coin/militaria dealer and a small art gallery. Stokes Books and its proprietor, Stephen Stokes, are a Dublin institution and if it's quality Irish books you're after look no further. Rare editions on Irish history, transport, literature etc. line the shelves while outside shelves groan under the weight of vast numbers of bargain books all at rock bottom prices. Stephen is an avid book collector himself and if he doesn't know the book you're looking for - well it probably never existed!

Stokes Books,
Market Arcade,
Sth.Great Georges Street,
Dublin.2.

(01) 671 3584

Open: 11/6 Mon-Sat.

Enniscorthy, Co.Wexford Car Boot Sale

2009-03-17T17:19:00.000Z

Although this is a one-off rather than a regular event, it is for a good cause so here are the details.
Sunday, 26th April 2009 - Enniscorthy Showgrounds - Gates open 8.30am
Cars €20 each, Car + Trailer or Van €25.
Admission: Adults €2 and Children free.
Gate receipts in aid of Crumlin Hospital & Heart Children Ireland.
Further information: Ring Caroline on (086) 079 3663

Kilchreest Car Boot Sale, Loughrea, Co.Galway

2009-03-14T08:44:00.000Z

This is a fairly new venue and initial reports suggest that it is well worth a look.

Operates at Kilchreest C.B.S. (school) on the 1st Sunday of the month 10am-4pm.

Kilchreest is near Loughrea on the (N66) Gort/Loughrea Road.

Further information: Tel: Matt on (087) 255 1031

South East Salvage, Gorey, Co.Wexford

2009-03-13T15:58:00.000Z

Despite the miserable weather today I had a chance to nip up to Gorey for a long promised visit to the premises of South East Salvage - a short distance out of town off the Courtown Road. A well stocked salvage yard with all the usual bricks, slates, timber, garden seats, pumps etc. and two showrooms of smalls, furniture and various other collectables but sadly no must-haves!

A display of reproduction railway signs adorned the office. Who is making these? Some are very crude and utterly worthless like this Dundalk, Newry & Greenore Railway sign pictured above - priced at €40 - the authentic version would be worth nearer to €1,500.
Apart from looking as fresh as a newly laid egg, another giveaway is that the Secretary's name is from the Great Southern & Western Railway and NOT the Dundalk, Newry & Greenore Railway!

Verdict: Well worth a visit.

www.southeastnaturalslateandsalvage.ie

Collecting: Railway Letter Stamps

2009-03-10T21:16:00.000Z

In the days when the Post Office held a complete monopoly of the mails it was possible for the private individual or business to also send post by rail, by affixing the normal postage stamp plus a railway company stamp and presenting it at their nearest station for forwarding by the next available service. This maintained the Post Office's monopoly while producing a useful source of income for the railway companies. This system operated in the UK and Ireland from 1891 until 1947, and led to a wide variety of stamps being issued by the many independent railway companies.

These stamps are of interest to the specialist stamp collector as well to the railway enthusiast but despite their rarity they remain something of a Cinderella item and, as such, can still be bought quite cheaply. The unused block featured here were issued by the West Clare Railway Company in the 1890s and were purchased on eBay in 2004 for the paltry sum of €10. A very cheap way to begin a collection of genuine memorabilia from this long gone railway made famous by Percy French's song "Are you right there Michael?"

Given the prices achieved by far more common Irish postage stamps there is only one way that these curiosities are going - so the message is don't miss the boat! Apart form eBay these stamps turn up occasionally at the various Antiques Fairs around the country.

Gallery 29 - A Special Place!

2009-03-09T21:30:00.001Z

Travel posters, particularly those from the 1920/50s are still a comparatively cheap way of acquiring the work of well known Irish artists such as Paul Henry, Maurice Wilks, Hugo d'Alesi and Norman Wilkinson. While prices have increased steeply in recent years with a Paul Henry poster of Lough Derg now costing anything up to €2,000 the original work would cost a six-figure sum. Some posters are now almost as rare as the original with few surviving - they were, after all, supposed to be pasted on to railway station noticeboards! A poster dating from circa 1900, commissioned by the Midland, Great Western Railway Company, featuring a spectacular montage of West of Ireland scenes by the artist F.Hugo d'Alesi fetched €3,500 at auction in England in 2001 - believed to be a record for an Irish travel poster.

Several companies now offer full size reproductions of classic posters, of varying quality, but they are a poor substitute for the original and have little or no resale value.

Gallery 29 offers an enormous range of original travel posters as well as general Irish & European advertising posters from the 1890s to the 1970s displayed in an Art Gallery style setting. Lithographic posters represent a seriously good investment and, properly looked after, will appreciate in value over the coming years. Be warned however, as these beautiful items are ‘must-haves’ and if you are bitten by the bug you’ll need to have deep pockets!

Gallery 29,
29 Molesworth Street, Dublin.2.
Tel: (01) 642 5784
Website: www.gallery29.ie
Open: Tues/Sat. 10am-6pm

Inch Saturday Market & Car Boot Sale, Co.Wexford

2009-03-04T22:37:00.000Z

According to the Enniscorthy Guardian this popular venue is set to re-open this Saturday (7th March) at St.Mogue's Community Centre, Inch village. No times are given but presumably the usual early morning start times applies. Inch is a couple of miles north of Gorey on the old (N11) Dublin road.
Further info available from Mick Murray on (089) 414 6157

Keighery's Waterford City Auctions

2009-03-03T21:23:00.000Z

I attended my first auction for some years on Monday last at Keighery's of Waterford - a venue that I had been meaning to check out for sometime and I was not disappointed. The salesrooms are just round the corner from the Tower Hotel and there is plenty of safe on-street car parking. Having not been able to get to the viewing I arrived bright and early at 9am and had a good look at the 750+ lots of furniture, paintings and collectables in peace and quiet.

Auctioneer, Rody Keighery, explained to me that due to the serious decline in house sales there has been a reduction in the quantity and quality of items coming into the saleroom. That said, there was still plenty of interest and I had to resist the urge to bid on a pinball machine, missed a nice collection of Meccano but came away with three 'heavy' cast iron railway signs - a snip at €92.00!

The sale was well attended by private and trade buyers but despite this there were still plenty of bargains to be had with most lots being sold. The first two hundred lots were got through in an hour but as the quality improved the rate slowed down to the 100 lot an hour mark.

Refreshments (Tea/coffee/sandwiches and cakes) were available and doing a brisk trade. The salerooms are well heated and I would recommend the venue to all comers. And if there's nothing in the sale that takes your fancy there's always Keighery's own, well stocked, antiques shop which adjoins the salerooms.

As I mentioned I arrived early having left home at 6am and after viewing the sale went looking for breakfast. One of the Keighery's staff suggested that I try 'The Park Lodge Cafe' at the entrance to the nearby People's Park . I have to say that it was like an oasis in the depressed city that Waterford has become - a veritable beacon of hospitality. The former Park Ranger's house has been transformed into a cosy, welcoming place purveying all sorts of homemade dishes.
I opted for the Irish breakfast - and before long
I was sitting down to a fine, grease free, fry-up (2 very tasty sausages, two rashers, two eggs and a good helping of mushrooms, toast, marmalade and a large cup of coffee - €8.90) all served up on designer style crockery. The tables spaced a nice distance apart added to this very pleasant, and unexpected culinary experience. If you attend any of Keighery's sales or happen to be in the area call in here - you won't be disappointed!

INTRODUCTION

2009-02-26T13:12:00.005Z

I was born in London in 1959 but came to Ireland three months later to live with my maternal grandparents in Co.Wicklow. Both of my grandparents were inveterate collectors/hoarders - my grandmother could never throw anything away and my grandfather could never pass anything by that he saw lying on the street no matter big or small. Born as long ago as 1881, he had haunted the once plentiful auction rooms on Dublin's quays during the 1920's, and as a consequence the bungalow that I grew up in was stuffed with Jacobean, Victorian & Edwardian furniture. My grandmother collected everything but pride of place went to her wonderful collection of Clarice Cliff ceramics - more of which later.

Growing up in this environment I fell into the collecting habit at an early age, beginning with things that cost nothing such as cigarette packets, beer bottle tops, stamps, beer mats, sea shells and this was before I started at primary school. I moved on rapidly once I started at school and, along with several associates, was the scourge of the wild bird population of my hometown and much of the adjoining county. Thankfully this short destructive period of egg collecting led me to an appreciation of birds and the need to protect them. After birds came trains, by far my most crazy and expensive foray into collecting, and at its peak included a 25% stake in an operating steam railway and a vast collection of railwayana, locomotives, carriages, wagons and buses.

(That's me in the green jacket with my pride and joy - a Wickham railcar from Scotland - after its arival on the railway).

The railway adventure ended very badly and I have a recently disposed of my interest in the concern for about 1% of its estimated value - truly a case of 'a fool and his money'!

During the railway madness I had also become interested in phoneboxes - caused by my childhood love of the BBC Dr.Who TV series - and this led me to purchase two full size British red phoneboxes. A related interest in post boxes led to the acquisition of several full size examples too. All these are now long gone and I have downsized to some very attractive miniature versions (made in China!) which fit nicely on the bookcase. I now collect 00 model railways for my children and SM32 (Garden Railway gauge) for myself - still expensive but manageable and a fraction of the price of the real thing.

My latest acquistion - a garden railway, battery powered Wickham railcar - identical to the one pictured above but a lot more manageable!

While I have downsized massively I still continue to collect a diverse range of things including stoneware ginger beer bottles, hotel crockery, Isle of Man travel posters and kitchenalia - more of which later.

So, that's enough about me, the main purpose of this blog is to promote my forthcoming guide to Collecting in Ireland and to provide a regularly updated guide to What's on and Where to go to find collectables.